Philly Area Bloggers

For Mommies

February 04, 2005

Thrush

If you are new to breastfeeding and are experiencing constant nipple pain, or if nipple pain appears after weeks or months of previously pain-free breastfeeding, you might have thrush. Thrush is a yeast infection of the nipples. Sore nipples do not always mean thrush, so here are some of the most common symptoms associated with the infection:

Itchy or burning nipples that appear pink or red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters.

Cracked nipples.

Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings.

Intense nipple or breast pain that is not improved with better latch-on and positioning.

Deep breast pain

Here is an article with some pictures (be forewarned, some are graphic) of what thrush looks like, as well as a thrush quiz (as in, "Could your sore nipples be thrush?"). And here are some additional thrush-related links. The good news is the infection is very treatable and you do not have to stop nursing if you have it.